Here is the full western story, from the days of the conquistadores to the twentieth century, in an account notable not only for its comprehensiveness, but also for its amazing collection of photography which shows all aspects of the West as it actually was. In addition, among the illustrations are paintings, in full color, by such famous artists of the West as Remington, Catlin, Bodmer, Russell and many others; contemporary prints, engravings and drawings; maps, some rare and previously unpublished, some made specially for this book; documents and official papers from national and state archives; newly discovered letters and diaries; and a notable pictorial directory of desperadoes and lawmen of the West. As no other book does, The Great American West presents a thrilling panoramic view of the vast and wonderfully varied land that lies between the Mississippi Valley and the Pacific Ocean, and traces the exciting story of how Americans explored it, settled and developed it, established law and order and made it great.
